Our research on next generation biofuels
The research activities have focused on applied catalysis for production of next generation biofuels and selected bio-based chemicals from agricultural waste and algae biomass using the most innovative enzymatic and catalytic approaches and other environmentally friendly methodologies of green chemistry. These activities have been implemented in cooperation with leading research laboratories in Italy and have taken advantage of the existing ICS expertise in computer modelling. For example, in-house research activities on the design of multifunctional depolymerases for cellulose and/or lignocelluloses have been initiated and will be further extended to the design of novel algal systems through cellular transformation. The research activities are linked to the ICS fellowship programme, which in 2009 has involved visits of 6 young researchers and technologists from developing countries.